Beneath the packed beaches and touristy temple treks, Bali is home to a trove of phenomenal experiences that most people never find. It’s more than the heavily photographed locations and expensive beach clubs that this Indonesian paradise has to offer.
From hidden waterfalls nestled within caves to villages that feel frozen in time, the island compensates those who are willing to stray from the usual track. Ready to leave the tourists behind and get to the magic of Bali?
Here are 18 fun and offbeat things to do that’ll have your friends back home green with envy.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Imagine descending into what feels like a natural cathedral where sunlight streams through rocky openings above. Tukad Cepung Waterfall near Ubud is basically nature’s light show, creating magical rainbows when the sun hits just right.
The hike down involves some steep steps, so wear decent shoes, but the payoff is incredible when you have this hidden gem mostly to yourself.
Sidemen Village
Think of Sidemen as Bali’s best-kept secret for experiencing authentic rural life. This picturesque village in eastern Bali offers stunning rice terrace views without the tourist chaos of Tegalalang.
You can stay in bamboo houses that feel like treehouses, go white-water rafting, or simply cycle through emerald rice fields while chatting with local farmers who’ll teach you about traditional Balinese agriculture.
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Banjar Mancingan Rice Terrace
While everyone fights for photos at the famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace, smart travelers head to this hidden alternative just minutes away. Banjar Mancingan features the same gorgeous terraced landscapes but with a unique twist: palm-lined pathways that create picture-perfect corridors through the fields.
The best part? You’ll likely have the entire place to yourself—aside from the occasional farmer.
Munduk Twin Lakes
High in Bali’s northern mountains, Munduk offers a completely different climate and vibe from the tropical south. The twin lakes of Tamblingan and Buyan create breathtaking viewpoints, especially from places like Munduk Moding resort with its famous infinity pools overlooking West Bali.
The cooler mountain air and misty mornings make this feel more like Switzerland than Southeast Asia.
Coconut Wine and Coffee Tasting
While everyone knows about Bali’s famous coffee plantations, the coconut wine experience flies completely under the radar. Local farmers will show you their traditional fermentation process while you sample some seriously potent homemade brew.
It’s basically like getting invited to someone’s backyard distillery, except it’s totally legal and surprisingly delicious.
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Aling Aling Waterfall Adventure
Forget gentle waterfall viewing—Aling Aling is where thrill-seekers come to play. This northern Bali gem features not just beautiful cascades but also natural water slides and cliff jumping spots up to 50 feet high.
The twin waterfall is Instagram-worthy, but the real fun happens when you’re sliding down smooth rock faces into deep pools below.
Penglipuran Village
Known as one of the world’s cleanest villages, Penglipuran feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved postcard. The traditional houses with their distinctive Balinese architecture line spotless lanes, and villagers still follow ancient customs in their daily routines.
It’s cultural immersion without feeling like you’re intruding on a museum exhibit.
Nyang Nyang Beach
While Uluwatu’s popular beaches get packed with surfers and sunbathers, Nyang Nyang remains blissfully untouched. This massive stretch of white sand requires a bit of hiking to reach, which keeps the crowds away.
At high tide, the swimming is fantastic, and you’ll often have this paradise practically to yourself.
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White Water Rafting Near Ubud
Most people think of Bali as temples and beaches, but the Ayung River offers some seriously fun rapids just 25 minutes from Ubud. The 12-kilometer journey takes you through lush jungle, past waterfalls, and between towering cliffs.
It’s adventure tourism done right, with local guides ensuring both safety and excitement.
Tenganan Village
This ancient Bali Aga village has preserved traditions that predate Hindu influence on the island. The villagers still practice unique rituals like the Pandan Wars, where young men battle using thorny pandan leaves, and they’re the only place in Bali that creates traditional double ikat textiles.
Visiting feels like time travel to pre-modern Indonesia.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces at Sunrise
These UNESCO World Heritage rice terraces offer mind-blowing sunrise views, especially when they’re flooded and reflecting the morning light. Unlike the crowded southern terraces, Jatiluwih’s vast expanse means you can find quiet spots for contemplation.
Some adventurous visitors even try tubing through the flooded fields.
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Sekumpul Waterfall
Bali’s tallest waterfall complex features multiple cascades tumbling down jungle-covered cliffs, creating one of the island’s most spectacular natural displays. The hike to reach the base involves 476 steps down and back up, but the payoff includes multiple waterfalls and swimming opportunities in pristine pools surrounded by virgin rainforest.
Traditional Mask Making in Bongkasa Village
This village keeps the ancient art of Barong mask creation alive, and visitors can participate in workshops to craft their traditional masks. You’ll learn about the spiritual significance of each design while working alongside master artisans who’ve inherited these skills through generations. It beats buying mass-produced souvenirs in Kuta any day.
Celuk Silver Village
Most tourists rush through Celuk on their way to Ubud, missing the chance to see master silversmiths at work. This village has specialized in gold and silver metalwork for centuries, and many workshops welcome visitors to try their hand at jewelry making.
Watching artisans create intricate designs using traditional techniques is mesmerizing.
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Mount Batur Sunrise Trek
Hiking an active volcano in the dark might sound intimidating, but Mount Batur’s sunrise trek is manageable for most fitness levels. The reward includes watching the sun rise over Lake Batur while you’re standing on the rim of an active crater.
Local guides often cook eggs using volcanic steam, adding a uniquely Balinese touch to the experience.
Rumah Gemuk Glass House Cafe
Perched above one of Bali’s mountain lakes, this glasshouse restaurant feels like dining inside a giant snow globe. Fairy lights twinkle overhead while classical covers of pop songs play, creating an atmosphere that’s part Bridgerton, part fairy tale.
The minimum spend seems steep until you realize you’re paying for one of Bali’s most unique dining experiences.
Bayad Waterfall
When the famous waterfalls get overwhelmed with visitors, locals escape to hidden gems like Bayad. This secret cascade near Ubud offers the same natural beauty without the crowds, making it perfect for peaceful contemplation or a refreshing swim.
The easy accessibility means you can visit during lunch breaks from temple hopping.
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Lontar Museum Village Experience
This tiny museum in rural East Bali offers hands-on workshops about traditional palm-leaf manuscripts called lontars. Local villagers teach visitors about the ancient Balinese writing system while demonstrating how these historical documents were created.
It’s educational tourism at its most authentic, supporting a community that’s preserving endangered cultural knowledge.
Where Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Discovery
Today’s Bali perfectly balances honoring its rich cultural heritage while embracing curious travelers seeking authentic experiences. These hidden gems prove that the island’s true magic lies not in its most famous attractions but in the countless small moments of discovery waiting around every corner.
The villages that once isolated themselves from outside influence now welcome visitors eager to learn, creating cultural exchanges that benefit everyone involved. When you venture beyond the tourist trail, you’ll find that Bali’s greatest treasure isn’t any single destination—it’s the island’s remarkable ability to surprise and delight those willing to look a little deeper.
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